BUS 390: The Culture and Business of Ireland Ireland

BUS 390A (4 credits)
4 weeks in Galway, Ireland
Professor Roger Dean

Twenty-five years ago Ireland was regarded as the "poorest of the rich nations". Then its economy grew to one of the richest and strongest in the world. During these "Celtic Tiger" years, Ireland benefited from partnerships with government, business, and labor unions, and received significant direct foreign investments. However at the end of 2008 Ireland encountered a severe banking and real estate crisis. This course has two primary objectives:

• To immerse students into the culture (history, literature, theater, religion, social norms) of Ireland via lectures and field trips to sites of historic and cultural significance. The course will conclude with a medieval banquet and traditional Irish entertainment at an historic castle.

• To study the economy, management practices, and business climate of modern Ireland including its role in the European Union via lectures, meetings with business leaders, and visits to national and international businesses.

We will be based in Galway, Ireland. Classes will be held on the campus of the National University of Ireland, Galway with field trips to businesses and historical sites in County Galway, County Clare, and Dublin City.

Program Fee (paid to W&L): $3,430. This fee includes accommodation in serviced apartments, lunches on class days, some dinners, guest lectures, and field trips.

Estimated Additional Costs: Beyond the program fee, students will be responsible for travel to Galway ($900-$1,100, depending on departure airport), and should bring approximately $900 to cover additional meals and pocket money.

For more information, please contact Prof. Dean at deanr@wlu.edu.